Cien Y Pico

Cien Y Pico is a characterful project in Manchuela, a high plateau in south-east Spain where old bush vines survive at altitude. The name, meaning a hundred and something, nods to the age of its gnarled old vineyards. This is Spanish winemaking that celebrates heritage and place. The estate works with the region's traditional grapes, above all the deep-coloured Garnacha Tintorera and the local Bobal. Grown in the goblet style on limestone soils high above sea level, these old vines yield tiny crops of concentrated fruit. Cool nights preserve freshness in a warm land. Winemaking is honest and unfussy, letting the old-vine fruit speak for itself. The wines are deeply coloured, richly fruited yet balanced, with the freshness that altitude brings. Value and character go hand in hand across the range. Cien Y Pico offers bold, sun-filled Spanish reds with real individuality. Ripe, dark and gluggable yet serious, they are a delicious introduction to one of Spain's most exciting corners.